2017 Detroit Auto Show, Day 1 - Morning Wrap-Up

1.09.2017

The 2018 Lexus LS sedan is making its global debut at the 2017 NAIAS. This is the 5-th generation for the flagship sedan. The rear wheel drive LS is built on the new global architecture for luxury vehicles just like the new LC 500. It comes with all-new twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 415 horsepower and a 10-speed automatic transmission. Sales start the end of 2017.

The next generation 2018 Chevrolet Traversedebuted in Detroit. The 3-row crossover features seating for up to 8 people. Drivers who like the brand will have more trim levels to choose from. The debut of the new Traverse completes Chevy’s transformation of their crossover and SUV lineup.

Audi designers are giving premium drivers something new to consider. The German luxury brand revealed the Audi Q8 concept. The idea is coupe like styling in an SUV size. They hope to launch it next year.

Audi brought much more to Motor City. The sporty and A5 and S5 cabriolet are making their US debut. The electronic top can be lowered in 15 seconds. Motorweek also saw the cover come off the Audi SQ5 crossover. The 6-cylinder engine pumps out 354-horsepower.

Ford showed their hot selling F-150. They also talked about bringing the Ranger mid-size pick-up truck back to North America in 2019. Ford also says the Bronco will return to American roads in 2020.

Mercedes Benz crossed the pond to reveal the 2018 Mercedes Benz AMG GT C coupe Among its many features are the distinctive Panamericana grille and active rear-axle steering.

Detroit is also the stage for the 2018 Mercedes GLA small crossover. It comes with modified bumpers and available LED headlights. An interesting option is the off-road comfort suspension that raises the body 300 millimeters.

Volkswagen is thinking electric in Detroit. They unveiled a all-electric vehicle to their I.D. family. This I.D. Buzz concept vehicle has two electric motors and all-wheel drive. They say it will have a range of 270 miles. The first I.D. was presented in Paris in September.

Volkswagen also announced a new trim package for the 2018 Atlas crossover called the R-Line. Outside the performance inspired R-Line package includes 20-inch aluminum wheels and unique front and rear bumpers. Inside the R-Line treatment includes stainless steel sport pedal covers. The Atlas goes on sale in the spring, with the R-Line package following a few months later.

The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan is getting 10.7 inches longer to accommodate the needs of North American customers. The second row seats slide, and a third row will be available. It goes on sale in the summer 2017.

BMW is stepping up the premium sedan competition with the2017 BMW 540i. The 7th generation of the BMW 5 Seriesis making its world debut at the North American International Auto Show. The 6-cylinder engine produces 335 horsepower… 35 more than the previous version.

The crowd here is seeing it alongside the first-ever BMW M550i xDrivewhichcomes with an 8-cylinder gasoline engine and 456 horsepower. There’s also a plug-in hybrid electric iPerformance variant…the BMW 530e iPerformance. The BMW 5 series hits showrooms next month. The M Performance and iPerformance variants arrive in the spring.